RENOUNCE Synonyms: 89 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'renounce' distinct from other similar verbs?

The words abdicate and resign are common synonyms of renounce . While all three words mean "to give up a position with no possibility of resuming it," renounce may replace it but often implies additionally a sacrifice for a greater end. // renounced her inheritance by marrying a commoner

Q: When could 'abdicate' be used to replace 'renounce'?

Although the words abdicate and renounce have much in common, abdicate implies a giving up of sovereign power or sometimes an evading of responsibility such as that of a parent. // abdicated the throne

Q: When is it sensible to use 'resign' instead of 'renounce'?

While in some cases nearly identical to renounce , resign applies to the giving up of an unexpired office or trust. // resigned from the board

renounce

verb

ri-ˈnau̇n(t)s

Definition of renounce next

as in to relinquish

to give up (as a position of authority) formally in wake of the corruption scandal, the congressman was forced to renounce his seat in the House

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to withdraw

to solemnly or formally reject or go back on (as something formerly adhered to) after another failed romance he vowed that he was renouncing the world and becoming a monk

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word renounce distinct from other similar verbs?

The words abdicate and resign are common synonyms of renounce. While all three words mean "to give up a position with no possibility of resuming it," renounce may replace it but often implies additionally a sacrifice for a greater end.

renounced her inheritance by marrying a commoner

When could abdicate be used to replace renounce?

Although the words abdicate and renounce have much in common, abdicate implies a giving up of sovereign power or sometimes an evading of responsibility such as that of a parent.

abdicated the throne

When is it sensible to use resign instead of renounce?

While in some cases nearly identical to renounce, resign applies to the giving up of an unexpired office or trust.

resigned from the board

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of renounce China has long refused to renounce the use of force against Taiwan, sending aircraft and warships near the island daily. —

Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 3 Dec. 2024 Clinton agreed to grant the FALN members clemency in exchange for them renouncing violence. —

Bill Hutchinson, ABC News, 2 Dec. 2024 Despite his notoriety, Ver decided in 2014 to renounce his US citizenship, later becoming a citizen of St. Kitts and Nevis. —

Bloomberg, The Mercury News, 14 Nov. 2024 Over the past two years, several prominent Russian billionaires have renounced their citizenship and exited the country’s economic landscape. —

Daniel Markind, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for renounce

Recent Examples of Synonyms for renounce

Verb

Textor would choose to relinquish his position on the Palace board in the event that Sportsbank’s investment in Eagle is completed.

Matt Woosnam, The Athletic, 6 Jan. 2025
Angela later relinquished the creative director title.

Clare Fisher, People.com, 2 Jan. 2025